AI-generated news, violent visuals, heated debates: Centre issues warning to TV channels

New Delhi: The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has issued a fresh advisory to private satellite television channels, warning against the misuse of artificial intelligence (AI), sensational reporting of crimes and violence, and the broadcast of disturbing visuals. It has also reiterated restrictions on live coverage of anti-terror operations and urged broadcasters to ensure accuracy and responsible reporting.

In an advisory issued on Wednesday, October 21, the ministry expressed concern over instances of non-compliance with the Programme Code prescribed under the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995, and the Cable Television Networks Rules, 1994.

The ministry said the Inter-Departmental Committee (IDC), constituted under the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021, had observed that certain television broadcasts were inconsistent with the spirit of the Programme Code.

According to the advisory, the committee identified similar instances of questionable news coverage and visuals across multiple television channels. It recommended stricter adherence to broadcasting regulations and stressed that inappropriate behaviour or language should not be normalised on television.

Caution against AI-generated news content

One of the key aspects of the advisory concerns the growing use of artificial intelligence in television broadcasting.

The ministry asked channels to exercise caution while using AI tools, including generative AI, for producing graphics, virtual news presentations and other broadcast content.

It advised broadcasters to restrict the use of such technologies to an assistive role, ensuring that AI-generated material does not compromise the accuracy, authenticity or sensitivity of news reporting.

The ministry also emphasised that the use of emerging technologies must remain consistent with the Programme Code.

Restrictions on live coverage of anti-terror operations

Reiterating existing regulations, the ministry reminded television channels that live coverage of anti-terror operations conducted by security forces is prohibited under Rule 6(1)(p) of the Cable Television Networks Rules.

During such operations, broadcasters must restrict their reporting to periodic briefings by authorised officials until the operation concludes.

The advisory also called for appropriate time stamps on visuals wherever necessary to prevent viewers from mistaking previously recorded footage for live coverage.

The ministry referred to earlier advisories issued on June 12, 2024, and April 26, 2025, concerning the coverage of security operations.

Warning against sensational crime reporting

The ministry raised concerns over the broadcast of violent, graphic and disturbing visuals, asking television channels to exercise editorial discretion to avoid causing unnecessary distress to viewers.

It stressed that reporting on crime and violence must be based on verified facts and presented in a balanced and responsible manner.

Broadcasters were cautioned against sensational coverage that could glorify unlawful activities or normalise socially undesirable behaviour.

The advisory also warned against broadcasting misleading insinuations, false information and half-truths.

Channels were advised to avoid repeatedly airing disturbing visuals and to use appropriate blurring or masking techniques wherever necessary.

Special caution was urged while reporting crimes involving women and children.

Referring to its January 9, 2023, advisory, the ministry reiterated the need for responsible coverage of crimes, accidents, violence and deaths.

Strict protection of sexual assault survivors' identities

The ministry reminded broadcasters of their legal obligation to protect the identities of victims of sexual offences.

It directed channels to comply with Supreme Court guidelines and applicable laws prohibiting the disclosure of information that could identify survivors.

The restrictions extend beyond names and photographs to include family details, locations and other information that could directly or indirectly reveal a victim's identity.

The ministry cited its September 13, 2024, advisory, which had reiterated these safeguards.

Guidelines for disaster coverage and use of maps

The advisory also addressed television coverage of natural disasters, major accidents and other emergencies.

Broadcasters were asked to ensure that visuals used in such reports are appropriately time-stamped wherever necessary to prevent confusion and unnecessary panic.

The ministry stressed that disaster reporting must rely on verified information rather than speculation or misleading footage.

It also directed private satellite television channels to use only authentic maps of India published by the Survey of India in their broadcasts, graphics and digital representations.

The requirement, the ministry said, was necessary to uphold the country's territorial integrity.

Warning against inflammatory television debates

The ministry also cautioned channels against promoting communal or anti-national attitudes through television programmes, including live debates and panel discussions.

It called for stronger editorial oversight, including careful selection and prior sensitisation of panellists.

Where discussions turn abusive, derogatory or inflammatory, broadcasters were advised to take immediate corrective steps, including muting speakers, displaying disclaimers, interrupting the broadcast or discontinuing the feed.

The ministry reiterated that television programmes must comply with the provisions of the Programme Code governing communal harmony and responsible public discourse.

Channels warned of action for violations

The ministry asked broadcasters to strengthen internal editorial and content-review mechanisms to ensure compliance with statutory regulations.

It also recommended regular workshops, training programmes and sensitisation sessions for journalists, editors, production teams and other personnel involved in news gathering and broadcasting.

The advisory made it clear that violations of the Programme Code could invite action under the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995, and the rules framed under it.